Over and Underclocking Radeon 1800XT

[OrbitzXT]

Hello everyone, I just got this card today and have been doing a lot of research before it ever arrived. This card supposedly is a very good overclocker. I'm not one to push it to extremes but I might push it a little bit. Anyhow, this is my first video card that uses separate clocks for 2d and 3d applications. I upgraded from an X800XT. Its my understanding the reason for separate clocks is 2d applications obviously just don't need the same power, and there's no reason to generate extra heat and put more stress on the video card.

Currently, the 2d clocks are 594 Core, 693 Memory. The factory settings for 3d were 621/747, which I safely pushed to 648/855. However, thinking about the whole 2d/3d thing, wouldn't it make sense to perhaps underclock the 2d's clock? 594/693 is much much more than anyone would need for 2d app's. I'm just thinking about the lifespan and health of the card and was curious if it's worth doing. Any thoughts?

[saphalline]

Underclocking doesn't really benefit a processor of any kind unless you can also lower the voltages. Simply reducing the clock speed does not significantly reduce wear & tear. It can reduce heat output, but not increase lifespan.

You can go ahead and do it if you want, but it honestly won't make a noticeable difference in anything.